Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has been urged to compel Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to open his defence in the terrorism case filed against him by the Federal Government.
During Friday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) asked the court to dismiss the no-case submission filed by the defence and instead require Kanu to respond to the allegations. Awomolo argued that the charges involve serious claims of terrorist acts, including inciting violence and the alleged killing of no fewer than 170 security personnel.
While adopting the prosecution’s written address opposing the no-case submission, Awomolo maintained that the prosecution had presented ample evidence to establish a prima facie case. He said five witnesses had testified and numerous exhibits, including video and audio recordings, had been submitted to support the charges.
Contrary to the defence’s claims—presented by Kanu’s counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN)—Awomolo asserted that the prosecution’s reply effectively addressed all issues raised, rendering the no-case submission baseless.
He further argued that at this stage of the trial, the court’s role is simply to evaluate the evidence presented and determine whether it is sufficient to require the defendant to respond. Awomolo criticized the defence for focusing on discrediting witnesses and challenging the evidence, noting that such arguments are premature at this point in the proceedings.
